Statistical Sciences

MS in Statistical Sciences

In an increasingly data-driven world, the MS in Statistical Sciences prepares you for a range of career possibilities in the statistical/data sciences and helps you stand out in the marketplace.

The need for professionals trained in the mathematical techniques of data science is greater than ever. In this program, you’ll work closely with faculty who have extensive backgrounds in applied mathematics, data science/analytics, computational science, statistics, industrial modeling, and much more. In lieu of one formal course, students may conduct a semester’s worth of independent study with a research advisor that leads to publication of a quality technical report in an area of statistical/data sciences.

Admission to the program requires a BA/BS in math or statistics; if you have an undergraduate degree in a different discipline, you may be admitted if you have adequate undergraduate training in mathematics (multivariate calculus, linear algebra), computing (including familiarity with one or more programming languages, e.g., R, MATLAB, Python) and upper division probability and statistics (i.e., equivalent to math 151/152 at the Claremont Colleges).

Degree Requirements
A minimum of eight courses (32 units) of graduate math coursework is required, at least five of which (20 units) must be at the 300-level or higher.

Students who lack the prerequisite undergraduate coursework may be asked to complete more than 32 units. At least 20 units of coursework must be gamma courses (300-level and above). A grade of B- or above must be earned in gamma courses.

Students in the master’s program in mathematics, computational and applied mathematics, and statistical sciences may convert one 200-level (beta) course to gamma credit. At the discretion of the IMS Director, in consultation with the student’s academic advisor, more than one conversion may be approved in exceptional cases.

Independent Study
In lieu of one formal course, the student may take Math 398 Independent Study with a research advisor leading to a publication quality technical report in an area of computational or applied math.

Additional course option
In lieu of one of the math courses, the student may also choose one graduate course from within other departments at CGU or at KGI in which statistics is extensively applied. The fields may include Economics, Finance, Community and Global Health, Information Science and Technology, Evaluation, Education, Psychology, etc. Typical courses include Biostatistics, Data Science/Analytics, Research Methods, Computational Biology, among others. Substitution of such a course for a math course requires the approval of the academic advisor and the instructor of the course.

Accelerated Degree Option

If you are an undergraduate student at the Claremont Colleges*, you can obtain a graduate degree on an accelerated track. Undergraduate students can begin working toward the master’s requirements simultaneously with the completion of their undergraduate degrees.

You can earn a Master’s Degree in Mathematics, Computational & Applied Mathematics, or Statistical Sciences from Claremont Graduate University with just one additional year. Up to 16 units of undergraduate credit may be accepted towards your graduate degree. Financial aid is available for your graduate year at CGU.

*The accelerated degree option is only open to undergraduate students at Pomona, Scripps, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, and Pitzer.

Consider this opportunity if:

Your longer-term plans include a PhD in a math-related field (e.g. physics, engineering, computer science)

You are seeking a teaching career in math or science

You would like to get involved in ongoing research with CGU Math faculty during your senior year

Claremont Center for the Mathematical Sciences
Through the Claremont Center for the Mathematical Sciences (CCMS), you’ll have access to one of the largest mathematical science communities in California, as well as to workshops, conferences, and seminars, including:

Research Interests

Extended Faculty

In addition to CGU core faculty, you will have access to Math faculty across the Claremont Colleges, including Pomona, Scripps, Harvey Mudd, Claremont McKenna, Pitzer, and Keck Graduate Institute, as well as faculty who are part of the W.M. Keck integrated science department.